Six Nations grieved loss of long-time educator and former elected councilor

People of Six Nations are mourning the loss of a former elected councilor and long-time educator.

Linda Staats died Feb. 27.

“She was an educator of the Six Nations community,” Rudy Jacobs said on behalf of Kawenni:io/Gaweni:yo, a private elementary and high school immersion in Hagersville. “She was dedicated to advocating for proper education on our territory and knew the need for a strategy and a plan for this sector.”

Staats was the founding chief executive officer of Six Nations Polytechnic from 1993 to 2009. She also served as a principal in Northern Ontario and as principal of Kawenni:io/Gaweni:yo from 2014 to 2020.

“She accepted a call to serve as principal after the passing of the former principal,” Jacobs said. “This was a challenging period, but she was able to successfully and competently navigate the school through this trying time due to her strength, knowledge, and skills as a principal, acquired over years in education.

“She understood the meaning of the Kawenni:io/Gaweni:yo education philosophy importance to the community. Her contribution to keeping the program intact will never be forgotten and we are thankful for her service.”

Staats was a Six Nations elected councilor from 2001 to 2004.

“We are honored to be able to witness Linda’s work and advocacy for the Six Nations community,” Mark Hill, chief of the Six Nations Elected Band Council, said in a statement. “Her leadership and mentorship of many Six Nations families will not be forgotten.

“Linda’s wisdom and knowledge will live on through many generations who had the privilege to learn and be mentioned by her through their educational journeys.”

Six Nations elected council extended its deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Staats.

“We hope they are comforted and encouraged by the love surrounding them during this difficult time,” the elected council said in a statement. “Our thoughts, prayers, and good medicine are with her loved ones as we mourn and reflect on her magnificent contributions to Six Nations throughout her marvelous life.”

Staats is survived by her children Robin Staats, Aaron Staats and was the mother of the late Christina Staats. She was sister to Gary Hill, Joe and Val Sharrow, Fran Hill, Edna Hill, and the late Cindy Hill. She is also survived by many grandchildren.

A funeral service was held Thursday followed by a reception at Six Nations Polytechnic.

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